Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Available To: Faculty, Staff, Students

NAU's VPN service allows clients who are connecting to the Northern Arizona University network from a non-NAU Internet Service Provider (ISP) to appear as if they are directly connected to the campus network.

This allows for access to resources and services that are restricted to campus-connected computers.

What is a VPN

Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a network that uses 128-bit encryption and other security mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access the network and that data cannot be intercepted.

VPNs are “virtual” in the sense that individuals can use the public Internet as a means of securely accessing their corporate network. Once the VPN connection is established, users have access to the same network resources, addresses, and security as if they were attached locally on NAU's campus. Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) is a networking technology that supports VPNs, enabling remote users to access the NAU network securely.

VPNs are “private” because the data is encrypted between the client computer and the VPN server. Encryption makes it very difficult for anyone to intercept packets and capture sensitive data such as passwords.

NAU's VPN service allows clients that are connecting to the Northern Arizona University network from a non-NAU Internet Service Provider (ISP) to appear as if they are directly connected to the campus network. This allows for access to resources and services that are restricted to campus-connected computers.

Who Should Use a VPN

Traveling personnel and those who use outside ISPs for remote access to NAU services can benefit from the VPN. Examples of remote users are those using:

wireless on campus

Ethernet or wireless ports provided at conferences

home services like DSL or cable modem.

internet connections through their mobile devices

These connections are not secure to the NAU network.

Availability

The VPN connection is available to all NAU users. The VPN is an addition to a typical network connection and not a replacement for it.

You can configure the VPN settings in Mac OS 10.8 by following these step-by-step instructions.
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Step 1
Click the "Apple" icon on the far left-hand side of the menu bar at the top of the screen.
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Step 2
In the menu that appears, click "System Preferences."
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